Automated immunohistochemical analysis.

As the demand for immunohistochemical tests (IHC) extends beyond artistry to more widespread medical diagnostic need, the field requires improvements in quality, reproducibility, speed, and standardization. Automated IHC offers the opportunity to impart new levels of quality, reproducibility, and standardization while reducing labor and reagent costs. In addition, the controlled environment of automated IHC may increase the speed and timeliness of results. Described is a computerized bar code-driven automatic immunostaining device that automatically dispenses reagents, controls washing, mixing, and heating to optimize IHC reaction kinetics, allowing assay within 60 minutes. This electronically controlled device generates high-quality, reproducible IHC assays in a medically timely manner.